AS A water crisis looms in Metro Manila, state water regulator Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) seeks the creation of a “comprehensive” water security plan, Malacañang said on Thursday, November 7.
The suggestion was made by MWSS Administrator Emmanuel Salamat during the 43rd Cabinet meeting at the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday night, November 6, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.
The MWSS pushed for a Water Security Legacy (WSL) project in July 2011 to address critical concerns that have hindered the development of a comprehensive water development plan.
The WSL project seeks to draw out collaborative energies of MWSS, its two concessionaires, and other stakeholders “for the common good.”
Salamat also wanted the Department of the Interior and Local Government to issue an order to local chief executives to expedite necessary permits to meet timelines of the projects of the MWSS.
The MWSS chair also proposed the creation of an inter-agency task force on water supply and sewerage, Panelo said.
Salamat also sees the need to declare the Laguna Lake as a “vital source of water,” which needs protection and security, the Palace official added.
Duterte earlier warned of using “extraordinary powers” of his presidency by taking over the operations of water concessionaires Maynilad and Manila Water should looming water crisis become a national emergency.
Maynilad and Manila Water earlier announced rotational water service interruptions following the continued drop in water levels at the Angat and Ipo dams. (NASE/SunStar Philippines)